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Charleston tourism was low by the end of the 2008 season, leaving hospitality businesses pondering what would happen in 2009.

Read more stories on this subject in our tourism topic page.Some speculate that the overall tourism deflation will boost the relatively cheaper destination of Charleston.

Yes, Charleston is a cheaper destination than New York, Las Vegas, or Los Angeles, but people might be omitting their vacations this year as opposed to just pursuing a less economically demanding holiday spot.

The Post and Courier mentioned that 'destination-specific advertising money' has been cut in half this year, going from $10 million to $5 million.

The predictions are dubious as always, so we'll just have to wait and see.

Thanks to The Post and Courier for tipping us off.